China and Taliban Begin Mining at World's Second-Largest Mes Aynak Copper Deposit, Led by MCC

Jul 24, 2024, 08:30 PM

Chinese engineers, in collaboration with the Taliban government, have commenced a significant mining project at Afghanistan's Mes Aynak copper deposit, the world's second-largest. The project, led by the China Metallurgical Group Corporation (MCC), had been delayed for 16 years due to ongoing conflict in the region. A ceremony marking the construction of a crucial access road to the site was held on Wednesday, July 24, as confirmed by the Chinese Embassy to Afghanistan. This development is part of China's broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and signifies a substantial step in Sino-Afghan cooperation.